The aim of this course is to introduce students to the various factors that play a role in the processes of second language acquisition, particularly as it occurs in the classroom. Topics covered include language competence and proficiency, natural vs. classroom second language learning, language related features of second language acquisition (nature and function of the input, developmental stages, characteristics of learner interlanguage, first language transfer, etc.), individual characteristics of the learner, acquisition viewed as a cognitive activity, sociological, psychological and affective factors in second language acquisition, and current research in SLA and its application to teaching French as a second language.

No textbook required